‘Ikale Tahi prepares for physical match with Flying Fijians [1]
Friday, July 7, 2017 - 23:32. Updated on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 - 18:21.
By Eleanor Gee.
'Ikale Tahi coach Toutai Kefu is sizing up the Flying Fijians ahead of tomorrow's match at Teufaiva Stadium. “Our aim is to be more physical for longer periods and to play smarter,” he said today.
It was raining lightly for the Tongans this afternoon as they completed their captain's run at Teufaiva Stadium in preparation for the final match of their current tour.
Kefu was not concerned about possible wet weather tomorrow and said their game strategy is suited to “whether it’s dry or wet”.
After last week’s win against Manu Samoa, the ‘Ikale Tahi is going into this game with confidence, especially playing in front of their home crowd.
The players are ecstatic to play another game in Tonga.
“Just putting on the red jersey means a lot,” said the tall lock Steve Mafi.
“Playing for ourselves, the team and also the country. The enjoyment of seeing the smiles on the faces from last week just brings great joy to the boys and to myself.”
He was proud to play in last week's match. “It was my first time playing at Teufaiva and obviously we had a good result and hopefully we’ll keep that.”
Only two changes were made to the team that faced Manu Samoa last Saturday. Nili Latu and Nafi Tuitavake have left, and will be replaced by Jack Ram and Tevita Taufui.
If Tonga wins tomorrow, they automatically qualify for the next Rugby World Cup in Japan.